Paint Cup Assembly With an Outlet Valve

ABSTRACT

A paint cup assembly for a paint sprayer is disclosed and can include a paint reservoir, a cap configured to engage the paint reservoir, and a valve assembly disposed within the cap. The cap can include an outlet and the valve assembly can be operable from a closed configuration in which fluid flow through the outlet is prevented to an open configuration in which fluid flow through the outlet is permitted upon engagement with a paint sprayer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/483,524, filed May 6, 2011, entitled “PAINT CUPASSEMBLY,” naming inventors Biagio P. Pellegrino, Clemens E. Zoellner,Thomas R. Nixon, Christopher J. Chilton and Ronald J. Cuccia, whichapplication is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is directed to a paint cup assembly and to apaint cup assembly having a spring loaded valve disposed along anoutlet.

BACKGROUND

Spray guns can be used for rapidly coating surfaces with liquids, suchas paint. Paint can be contained in a container that attaches to thespray gun. The outlet of the container can be a releasably connectablecoupling that connects to the spray gun. Paint can flow from thecontainer into the spray gun and then, fed to a spray nozzle. The spraynozzle can combine the paint with air, atomize the liquid, and form aspray. At the end of the spraying operation, the container and themating connection to the spray gun should be thoroughly cleaned so thatthe paint from one operation does not contaminate the paint to besprayed in the next spraying operation. Additionally, the couplingbetween container and spray gun should be free of any dried liquid thatmight interfere with the connection between container and spray gun. Acontainer with a lid and a disposable cup or liner can be used toeliminate or reduce the labor required to clean the container and thecoupling to the spray gun.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and are not limited in theaccompanying figures.

FIG. 1 includes a plan view of a paint sprayer assembly in accordancewith a particular embodiment.

FIG. 2 includes a plan view of a paint cup assembly engaged with anadapter in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 3 includes an exploded plan view of a paint cup assembly and anadapter in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 3 a includes a detailed cross-sectional view of a paint liner.

FIG. 4 includes a detailed plan view of a first embodiment of a paintcup assembly outlet tube in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 5 includes a detailed plan view of a second embodiment of a paintcup assembly outlet tube in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 6 includes a detailed plan view of a third embodiment of a paintcup assembly outlet tube in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 7 includes a plan view of a valve retainer in accordance with aparticular embodiment.

FIG. 8 includes a cross-sectional view of a valve plunger in accordancewith a particular embodiment.

FIG. 9 includes a cross-sectional view of a valve actuator in accordancewith a particular embodiment.

FIG. 10 includes a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of anadapter in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 11 includes a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of anadapter in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 12 includes a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of anadapter in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 13 includes a cross-sectional view of the paint cup assembly takenalong line 13-13 in FIG. 2 in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 14 includes a detailed plan view of a third embodiment of a paintcup assembly valve assembly in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 15 includes a perspective view of a paint cup assembly fillingstation in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 16 includes a top plan view of a paint cup assembly filling stationin accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 17 includes a side plan view of a paint cup assembly fillingstation in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 18 includes a first cross-sectional view of a paint cup assemblyfilling station in accordance with a particular embodiment taken alongline 18-18 in FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 includes a second cross-sectional view of a paint cup assemblyfilling station in accordance with a particular embodiment taken alongline 19-19 in FIG. 16.

FIG. 20 includes a first perspective view of a paint cup assemblysupport stand in accordance with a particular embodiment.

FIG. 21 includes a second perspective view of a paint cup assemblysupport stand in accordance with a particular embodiment.

Skilled artisans appreciate that elements in the figures are illustratedfor simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale.For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures canbe exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improveunderstanding of embodiments of the invention. The use of the samereference symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identicalitems.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description in combination with the figures is provided toassist in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The followingdiscussion will focus on specific implementations and embodiments of theteachings. This focus is provided to assist in describing the teachingsand should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope orapplicability of the teachings.

As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes, ”“including, ” “has, ” “having,” or any other variation thereof, areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process,method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is notnecessarily limited only to those features but can include otherfeatures not expressly listed or other features that are inherent tosuch process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expresslystated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to anexclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one ofthe following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), Ais false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and Bare true (or present).

The use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and componentsdescribed herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give ageneral sense of the scope of the embodiments of the disclosure. Thisdescription should be read to include one or at least one and thesingular also includes the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clearthat it is meant otherwise.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this disclosure belongs. The materials, methods, andexamples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a paint sprayer assembly is illustratedand is generally designated 100. As illustrated, the paint sprayerassembly 100 includes a paint spray gun 102 and a paint cup assembly 104that can be removably engaged with the paint spray gun 102 via anadapter 106. In a particular aspect, the adapter 106 can be threadablyengaged with the paint spray gun 102 and the paint cup assembly 104 canbe inserted into the adapter 104. Further, during operation of the paintspray gun 102, the paint cup assembly 104 can be in fluid communicationwith the paint spray gun 102. Specifically, the paint cup assembly 104can deliver paint to the paint spray gun 102 and the paint spray gun 102can be used to transmit the fluid, e.g., paint, to a substrate, e.g., acar body.

FIG. 2 through FIG. 9 illustrate details concerning the paint cupassembly 104 that is depicted in FIG. 1 in conjunction with the paintspray gun 102. Specifically, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 include detailsconcerning the paint cup assembly 104 in its entirety and FIG. 4 throughFIG. 9 illustrate details concerning various component parts of thepaint cup assembly 104.

As indicated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the paint cup assembly 104 caninclude a paint reservoir, e.g., a paint liner 202. The paint cupassembly 104 can also include an extended ring 204 that can at leastpartially surround the paint liner 202. In a particular aspect, theextended ring 204 can include an axial extension, e.g., a skirt, thatcan extend toward a closed proximal end of the paint liner such that thering can be configured to allow a user to grasp the paint cup assemblywithout collapsing the paint liner during attachment with a paintsprayer. As illustrated, the paint cup assembly 104 can include a cap206 that can be threadably engaged with the extended ring 204. Asdescribed in detail below, the cap 206 can engage the adapter 106 inorder for the paint cup assembly 104 to be attached to a spray gun (notillustrated).

FIG. 3 indicates that the paint liner 202 can include a hollow body 302that defines a proximal end 304 and a distal end 306. The hollow body302 can be generally frustoconical. The proximal end 304 of the hollowbody 302 can be closed. Further, the proximal end 304 of the hollow body302 can be rounded. The distal end 306 of the hollow body 302 can beopen and can facilitate filling the paint liner 202 with paint, asdescribed in detail below. The hollow body 302 can also include a rim308 that circumscribes the distal end 306 of the hollow body 302. Whenthe extended ring 204 is engaged with the cap 206, the rim 308 of thepaint liner 202 can be captured, or otherwise trapped, between theextended ring 204 and the cap 206.

In a particular aspect, the paint liner 202, including the hollow body302, can be transparent. In another aspect, the paint liner 202,including the hollow body 302, can be translucent. In still anotheraspect, the paint liner 202, including the hollow body 302, can beopaque. In still another aspect, portions of the paint liner 202 can beopaque and other portions can be transparent, translucent, or acombination thereof. For example, the paint liner 202 can substantiallyopaque with one or more transparent strips to facilitate measuring whilefilling the paint liner 202 with paint.

In a particular aspect, the paint liner 202 can be disposable. Further,in a particular aspect, the paint liner 202 can be collapsible.Specifically, the paint liner 202 can be collapsible as paint iswithdrawn from within the paint liner 202. Also, in a particular aspect,the paint liner 202 can be constructed from low density polyethylene(LDPE).

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the paint liner 202 can include a plurality ofindicia 310 spaced along the length of the hollow body 302 of the paintliner 202. Each of the indicia can be space along the length of thehollow body 302. Each of the indicia 310 can represent an incrementalchange in an internal volume of the paint liner. In a particular aspect,the plurality of indicia 310 can be lines that are printed, or otherwisedisposed, on an exterior surface of the body 302. In another aspect, theplurality of indicia 310 can be printed, or otherwise disposed, on aninterior surface of the body 302. In still another aspect, the pluralityof indicia 310 can be printed, or otherwise disposed, on an interiorsurface of the body 302 and on an exterior surface of the body 302. Theindicia 310 can partially circumscribe the body 302. Alternatively, theindicia 310 can fully circumscribe the body 302.

It can be appreciated that the volume between adjacent indicia can bethe same. Further, it can be appreciated that due to the tapered shapeof the body 302 the spacing of the indicia along the body can vary.

In a particular aspect, each of the plurality of indicia 310 can be araised rib extending from the body. Each of the ribs can extendinternally into the body. Conversely, each of the ribs can extendexternally, or outwardly, from the body.

In another aspect, each of the indicia 310 can serve as a crush zone tofacilitate collapsing of the paint liner 202 as paint is expressed fromthe paint liner 202 during a spraying operation. As illustrated in FIG.3 a, the body 302 of the paint liner 202 can have a body wall thickness,t_(BW), and each of the indicia 310 can have an indicia wall thickness,t_(IW), and the indicia wall thickness can be less than the body wallthickness.

In a particular aspect, the indicia wall thickness can be less than orequal to ninety percent (90%) of the body wall thickness. In anotheraspect, the indicia wall thickness can be less than or equal toeighty-five percent (85%) of the body wall thickness. In yet anotheraspect, the indicia wall thickness can be less than or equal to eightypercent (80%) of the body wall thickness. In still another aspect, theindicia wall thickness can be less than or equal to seventy-five percent(75%) of the body wall thickness. In another aspect, the indicia wallthickness can be less than or equal to seventy percent (70%) of the bodywall thickness. In still yet another aspect, the indicia wall thicknesscan be less than or equal to sixty-five percent (65%) of the body wallthickness. In yet another aspect, the indicia wall thickness can be lessthan or equal to sixty percent (60%) of the body wall thickness.

In another aspect, the indicia wall thickness can be less than or equalto fifty-five percent (55%) of the body wall thickness. In still anotheraspect, the indicia wall thickness can be less than or equal to fiftypercent (50%) of the body wall thickness. In another aspect, the indiciawall thickness can be less than or equal to forty-five percent (45%) ofthe body wall thickness. In another aspect, the indicia wall thicknesscan be less than or equal to forty percent (40%) of the body wallthickness. In yet another aspect, the indicia wall thickness can be lessthan or equal to thirty-five percent (35%) of the body wall thickness.Further, in another aspect, the indicia wall thickness can be less thanor equal to thirty percent (30%) of the body wall thickness. In stillanother aspect, the indicia wall thickness can be less than or equal totwenty-five percent (25%) of the body wall thickness. In another aspect,the indicia wall thickness may not be less than twenty percent (20%) ofthe body wall thickness. Further, the indicia wall thickness can bewithin a range between and including any of the percentage of body wallthickness values described herein.

Returning to FIG. 3, the extended ring 204 can include a hub 312 havinga proximal end 314 and a distal end 316. As illustrated, a skirt 318 canextend longitudinally from the proximal end 314 of the hub 312. Theskirt 318 can be formed with a plurality of slots 320. The slots 320 canallow a user to see the indicia 310 on the paint liner 202 while fillingthe paint liner 202 with paint.

FIG. 3 indicates that the distal end 316 of the hub 312 can be formedwith a plurality of teeth 322 that extend radially outward from the hub312. Accordingly, when viewed from the distal end 316, the hub 312 ofthe extended ring 204 can have a gear, or cog, shape. This gear, or cog,shape can be configured to key the paint cup assembly 104 to a fillingstation, described in detail below, during filling. Specifically, thegear shape can be configured to fit into a correspondingly shaped holeformed in a filling station in order to prevent the paint cup assembly104 from rotating within the hole as the extended ring 204 is engagedwith the cap 206.

The hub 312 can include an interior surface (not illustrated) that canbe formed with a plurality of internal threads. As such, the hub 312,and the extended ring 204, can be configured to threadably engage thecap 206. When assembled, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the skirt 318 of theextended ring 204 can at least partially surround the paint liner 202.Further, the skirt 318 can extend at least partially along the length ofthe paint liner 202. In a particular aspect, the skirt 318 can besubstantially rigid and the skirt 318 can be configured to be graspedwithout collapsing the paint liner 202. Particularly, the extended ring204 can be constructed from twenty percent (20%) talc filledpolypropylene.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3, the cap 206 of the paint cup assembly104 can include generally hemispherical hollow body 329 having aproximal end 330 and a distal end 332. The proximal end 330 of the cap206 can be formed with a plurality of external threads 334 that areconfigured to engage the internal threads (not illustrated) formed inthe hub 312 of the extended ring 204. The cap 206 can also include aprimary sealing structure 336 and a secondary sealing structure 338. Thecap 206 can also include an external rim 339 having an externaldiameter. The primary sealing structure 336 can be located at a distancefrom the external rim 339 and the secondary sealing structure 338 can belocated between the primary sealing structure 336 and the external rim339.

During use, the extended ring 204 can be threaded onto the cap 206 andthe rim 308 of the paint liner 202 can be sandwiched between theextended ring 204 and the cap 206. A primary seal can be establishedbetween the rim 308 of the paint liner 202 and the primary sealingstructure 336 on the cap 206. The primary seal can substantially preventfluid from leaking through the interface established by the paint liner202 and the cap 206. A secondary seal can be established betweensecondary sealing structure 338 on the cap 206 and the hub 312 of theextended ring 204. The secondary seal can substantially prevent fluidfrom leaking through the interface established by the cap 206 and theextended ring 204.

Accordingly, when the paint cup assembly 104 is filled with fluid andassembled as illustrated in FIG. 1, the paint cup assembly 104 can beshaken to stir, or otherwise mix, the fluid within the paint cupassembly 104.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the cap 206 can include an outlet tube 340that can extend from the distal end 332 of the cap 206. Specifically,the outlet tube 340 can extend from the center of the distal end 332 ofthe cap 206. The outlet tube 340 can be configured to be removablyengaged with the adapter 106. For example, as depicted in FIG.3, theoutlet tube 340 can be formed with external threads 342.

Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the outlet tube 340 can beformed within one or more locking pins 400 that can extend radiallyoutward from the outlet tube 340. The locking pins 400 can be configuredto engage one or more grooves, or slots, formed within the adapter 106.Examples of grooves or slots formed within the adapter 106 are describedbelow in conjunction with FIG. 10 and FIG. 11.

In another aspect, the outlet tube 340 can be formed with one or moregrooves configured to engage one or more locking pins within theadapter. FIG. 5 illustrates one such groove, generally designated 500.As such, the groove 500 can include a generally helical portion 502 thatextends to a relatively straight portion 504. The relatively straightportion 504 can be substantially parallel to the end face of the outlettube 340. To install the paint cup assembly 104 (FIG. 3) within theadapter 106 (FIG. 3), the outlet tube 340 can be inserted into theadapter 106 (FIG. 3) such that the groove 500, or grooves, fit overcorresponding locking pins. Thereafter, the paint cup assembly 104 (FIG.3) can be rotated in order to move the groove 500, or grooves, over thelocking pins until the paint cup assembly 104 (FIG. 3) is essentiallylocked in placed within the adapter 106 (FIG. 3).

It can be appreciated that a spring in a valve assembly, describedbelow, can provide a biasing force to facilitate locking the paint cupassembly 104 (FIG. 3) within the adapter 106 (FIG. 3). Further, it canbe appreciated that the relatively straight portion 504 can be slightlyangled with respect to the end face of the outlet tube 340 in order toprovide a ramped structure to further facilitate locking the paint cupassembly 104 (FIG. 3) within the adapter 106 (FIG. 3). For example, therelatively straight portion 504 can be angled in a range of one degreeto twenty degrees (1°-20°) relative to a line parallel to the end faceof the outlet tube 340. Additionally, the relatively straight portion504 can terminate in a notch 506, or divot. A locking pin can move intothe notch 506 and can further secure attachment of the paint cupassembly 104 (FIG. 3) to the adapter (FIG. 3).

FIG. 6 illustrates another groove, generally designated 600. Asillustrated, the groove 600 can include a vertical portion 602 that canbe substantially perpendicular to the end face of the outlet tube 304.The vertical portion 602 leads to a first angled portion 604 that can beangled away from the end face of the outlet tube 304, e.g., in a rangeof one degree to twenty degrees (1°-20°). The first portion 604 can beangled with respect to a line parallel to the end face of the outlettube 304. A second angled portion 606 extends from the first angledportion 604 in the opposite direction as the first angled portion 604,i.e., toward the end face of the outlet tube 304. The second angledportion 606 can be angled in a range of one degree to twenty degrees(1°-20°). The second angled portion 606 can be angled with respect to aline parallel to the end face of the outlet tube 304.

In a particular aspect, the cap 206 can be constructed frompolypropylene (PP).

Returning to FIG. 3, the paint cup assembly 104 can also include a valveassembly 350. The valve assembly 350 can be installed within the cap206. Specifically, the valve assembly 350 can be installed within thecap 206 between the outlet tube 340 and a valve retainer 352. The valveassembly 350 can include a plunger 354 and a spring 356. In anotheraspect, the valve assembly 350 can include a ball (not illustrated) inlieu of a plunger.

In a particular aspect, the plunger 354 can be constructed from athermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Further, the spring 365 can be a conicalcompression spring made from stainless steel.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the valve retainer 352 include a generallydisk shaped frame 700. The frame 700 of the valve retainer 352 can beformed with a central opening 702 through which a portion of the plunger354 can extend through after installation and during operation of thevalve assembly 350, as described below. FIG. 7 depicts that the frame700 of valve retainer 352 can include one or more windows 704, oropenings, formed therein. A filter material 706, e.g., a mesh typematerial, can be disposed within each window 704. In a particularaspect, the frame 700 can include an upper portion and a lower portionand the filter material 706 can be sandwiched there between. In anotheraspect, the frame 700 can be a single piece and formed with the windows704 and the filter material 706 can be welded to an upper surface orlower surface of the frame 700.

In a particular aspect, the frame 700 of the valve retainer 352 can beconstructed from polypropylene. Further, the filter material 706 can bea mesh type material suitable for filtering a fluid such as paint.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the plunger 354 can include a shaft 800 thatcan include a proximal end 802 and a distal end 804. A head 806 canextend from the distal end 804 of the shaft 800. The head 806 of theplunger 354 can include a proximal end 808 and a distal end 810. Asealing collar 812 can extend radially from the proximal end 808 of thehead 806. The sealing collar 812 can be formed with a sealing face 814.The sealing face 814 of the sealing collar 812 can be configured toengage a valve seat, described below, formed in the outlet tube 340(FIG. 3) of the cap 206 (FIG. 3). When the sealing face 814 engages thevalve seat, flow through the outlet tube 340 (FIG. 3) can besubstantially blocked and the paint cup assembly 104 (FIG. 3) can besealed.

FIG. 8 depicts that the head 806 of the plunger 354 can be formed withone or more flutes 816. The flutes 816 can facilitate fluid flow throughthe paint cup assembly 104 (FIG. 3) when the sealing face 814 isdisengaged from the valve seat.

Returning to FIG. 3, the paint cup assembly 104 can further include theadapter 106. A valve actuator 850 can be installed within the adapter106. FIG. 9 illustrates further details concerning the valve actuator850 and FIG. 10 illustrates further details regarding the adapter 106.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the valve actuator 850 can include a generallycylindrical, base 900. A generally cylindrical, hollow post 902 canextend from the base 900. As illustrated, the base 900 can be formedwith a central bore 904. Further, the post 902 can be formed with one ormore slots 906, or openings. The slots 906 are configured to allowfluid, e.g., paint, to flow through the post 902 and the base 900 whenthe valve assembly 350 (FIG. 3) is in the open configuration. In aparticular embodiment, the post 902 can be configured to engage theplunger 354 (FIG. 3, FIG. 8) and move the plunger 354 linearly in orderto disengage the sealing face 814 (FIG. 8) of the plunger 354 (FIG. 8)from the valve seat, described in detail below in conjunction with FIG.13.

In a particular aspect, the valve actuator 850 can be constructed fromnylon.

FIG. 10 depicts details concerning the construction of the adapter 106.As illustrated, the adapter 106 can include an adapter body 1000 thatcan define a proximal end 1002 and a distal end 1004. Further, theadapter 106 can include an internal bore 1006 along the length of theadapter body 1000. The internal bore 1006 can include a first boreportion 1008 that can extend from the proximal end 1002 of the adapterbody 1000 toward the distal end 1004 of the adapter body 1002. Further,the internal bore 1006 can include a second bore portion 1010 that canextend from the first bore portion 1008 toward the distal end 1004 ofthe adapter body 1002. A third bore portion 1012 can extend from thesecond bore portion 1010 and terminate at the distal end 1004 of theadapter body 1002.

In a particular aspect, the base 900 (FIG. 9) of the valve actuator 354(FIG. 3) can be sized and shaped to fit into the second bore portion1010 of the internal bore 1006 formed in the adapter body 1000.Moreover, the base 900 (FIG. 9) of the valve actuator 354 (FIG. 3) canbe press fitted into the second bore portion 1010.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the first bore portion 1008 can be formedwith one or more grooves 1016 that can be configured to engage one ormore locking pins 400 (FIG. 4) that extend radially outward from theoutlet tube 340 (FIG. 4) of the cap 206 (FIG. 3). The groove 1016 caninclude a generally helical portion 1018 that can extend to a relativelystraight portion 1020. The relatively straight portion 1020 can besubstantially parallel to the end face of the adapter 106. To installthe paint cup assembly 104 (FIG. 3) within the adapter 106 (FIG. 3), theoutlet tube 340 (FIG. 3) can be inserted into the adapter 106 (FIG. 3)such that the locking pins 400 (FIG. 4) fit into corresponding grooves1016. Thereafter, the paint cup assembly 104 (FIG. 3) can be rotated inorder to move the locking pins 400 (FIG. 4) within the grooves 1016until the paint cup assembly 104 (FIG. 3) is essentially locked inplaced within the adapter 106 (FIG. 3).

It can be appreciated that the relatively straight portion 1020 can beslightly angled toward to the end face of the adapter 106 in order toprovide a ramped structure to further facilitate locking the paint cupassembly 104 (FIG. 3) within the adapter 106 (FIG. 3). For example, therelatively straight portion 1020 can be angled in a range of one degreeto twenty degrees (1°-20°) relative to a line parallel to the end faceof the adapter 106. Additionally, the relatively straight portion 1020can terminate in a notch 1022, or divot. A locking pin can move into thenotch 1022 and can further secure attachment of the paint cup assembly104 (FIG. 3) to the adapter 106 (FIG. 3).

FIG. 11 illustrates another groove, generally designated 1100, that canbe formed in the adapter 106. As illustrated, the groove 1100 caninclude a vertical portion 1102 that can be substantially perpendicularto the end face of the adapter 106. The vertical portion 1102 leads to afirst angled portion 1104 that can be angled away from the end face ofthe adapter 106, e.g., in a range of one degree to twenty degrees(1°-20°). The first portion 1104 can be angled with respect to a lineparallel to the end face of the adapter 106. A second angled portion1106 can extend from the first angled portion 1104 in the oppositedirection as the first angled portion 1104, i.e., toward the end face ofthe adapter 106. The second angled portion 1106 can be angled in a rangeof one degree to twenty degrees (1°-20°). The second angled portion 1106can be angled with respect to a line parallel to the end face of theadapter 106.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, in an alternative embodiment, the adapter 106can be formed within one or more locking pins 1200 that can extendradially inward from the adapter body 1000. For example, the lockingpins 1200 can extend radially inward from the wall of the first boreportion 1008 of the internal bore 1006 formed in the adapter body 1000.In a particular aspect, the locking pins 1200 can be configured toengage one or more grooves, or slots, formed within the outlet tube 340of the cap 206.

In a particular aspect, the adapter 106 can be constructed from a metal,such as aluminum.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a detailed view of the paint cup assembly 104is illustrated. FIG. 13 depicts the outlet tube 340 of the cap 206inserted into the first bore portion 1008 of the internal bore 1006formed in the adapter 106. As the outlet tube 340 is inserted into theadapter 106, the valve actuator 850 within the adapter 106 can engagethe plunger 354 of the valve assembly 350. Specifically, the post 902 ofthe valve actuator 850 can contact and engage the head 806 of theplunger 354.

The post 902 of the valve actuator 850 can cause the plunger 354 to movelinearly into the cap 206 and through the valve retainer 352, e.g.,through the central opening 702 of the valve retainer 352. As theplunger 354 moves as described, the spring 356 can be compressed betweenthe valve retainer 352 and the head 806 of the plunger 354. Further, asthe plunger 354 moves into the cap 206, the sealing face 814 formed onthe sealing collar 812 of the head 806 can be unseated, or otherwisedisengaged, from a valve seat 1300 formed within the cap 206 at the baseof the outlet tube 340.

As the sealing face 814 of the head 806 is unseated from the valve seat1300 of the outlet tube 340, fluid, e.g., paint, can flow from the paintliner 202 through the cap 206 and out of the outlet tube 340. The fluidcan then flow through the valve actuator 850 and through the adapter 106into a paint sprayer. As the fluid flows through the cap 206, the filtermaterial 706 (FIG. 7) disposed within the valve retainer 352 can filterthe fluid, e.g., to remove any dirt, dust, or other particles.

Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the valve assembly 350 can beconfigured to be operable from a closed configuration in which fluidflow through the outlet tube 340 can be prevented to an openconfiguration in which fluid flow through the outlet tube 340 can bepermitted upon engagement with a paint sprayer. In particular, the openconfiguration can be achieved automatically during engagement of thepaint cup assembly 104 with the adapter 106 or paint sprayer (notillustrated). Further, it can be appreciated that the engagement can beachieved by reducing a distance between the paint cup assembly and theadapter 106 or paint sprayer (not illustrated). Further, in a particularembodiment, engagement can include an interference fi. In anotheraspect, engagement can include a threaded engagement.

Referring to FIG. 14, a third embodiment of a valve assembly isillustrated and is designated 1400. As illustrated, the valve assembly1400 can include a membrane 1402 disposed within an outlet tube 1404 ofa cap (not illustrated). In particular aspect, the membrane 1402 can beself-sealing when a trocar is removed therefrom.

The valve assembly 1400 can further include a trocar 1406 or a similarlyconfigured needle or piercing hollow shaft. The trocar 1406 can bedisposed within an internal bore 1408 of an adapter 1410. The trocar1406 can be supported by one or more support structures 1412 that extendradially from a base of the trocar 1406 to the wall of the internal bore1408.

As a paint cup assembly (not illustrated) is engaged with the adapter1410, the outlet tube 1404 of the cap (not illustrated) can be insertedinto the internal bore 1408 of the adapter 1410. Further, as the outlettube 1404 is pushed into the adapter, the trocar 1406 can pierce themembrane 1402 in order to permit fluid flow out of the paint cupassembly (not illustrated) and through the adapter 1410 into a paintsprayer (not illustrated).

When the paint cup assembly (not illustrated) is disengaged from theadapter 1410, the trocar 1406 can be retracted, or otherwise removed,from the membrane 1402. Once the trocar 1406 is removed from themembrane 1402, the membrane 1402 can seal the hole formed at thelocation within the membrane 1402 in which the trocar 1406 pierced themembrane 1402. As such, if the paint cup assembly (not illustrated)remains at least partially filled with fluid, leakage of the fluid canbe substantially minimized

FIG. 15 through FIG. 21 illustrate a paint cup filling station,generally designated 1500. As shown, the paint cup filling station 1500can include a first paint cup tray 1502 and a second paint cup tray 1504separated by a housing 1506. Depending on the orientation of the paintcup filling station 1500, the first paint cup tray 1502 can beconsidered an upper paint cup tray; the second paint cup tray 1504 canbe considered a lower paint cup tray; and vice-versa.

The housing 1506 can have a first side wall 1510, a second side wall1512, a third side wall 1514, and a fourth side wall 1516. Further, thehousing 1506 can be constructed from a corrugated material and thehousing 1506 can be foldable, or otherwise collapsible. When erected,the side walls 1510, 1512, 1514, 1516 can be connected to adjacentsidewalls 1510, 1512, 1514, 1516, the paint cup trays 1502, 1504, or acombination thereof via one or more fasteners 1520, e.g., removable pushpin fasteners, thumb screws, etc.

As shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the first paint cup tray 1502 can beformed with one or more paint cup assembly holes 1530. Further, thesecond paint cup tray 1504 can also be formed with one or more paint cupassembly holes 1532. Each paint cup assembly hole 1530, 1532 can beconfigured to receive a correspondingly sized and shaped paint cupassembly 1540. Further, each paint cup assembly hole 1530, 1532 can beconnected to one or more adjoining paint assembly holes 1530, 1532 viaone or more fluid channels 1550. Accordingly, if a particular paint cupassembly 1540 is being filled and begins to overfill the fluid, e.g.,paint, can flow from the particular paint cup assembly 1540 that isbeing overfilled and into one or more adjacent paint cup assemblies.

FIG. 17 indicates that at least one of the sidewalls 1510, 1512, 1514,1516 can be formed with one or more elongated windows 1560. Eachelongated window 1560 can be aligned with a respective paint cupassembly hole 1530, 1532. Specifically, a center axis of the window 1560can be aligned with a center of a paint cup assembly hole 1530, 1532.Each elongated window 1560 can be configured to allow a user to view atleast a portion of the paint cup assembly 1540 when the paint cupassembly 1540 is installed in the paint cup filling station 1500. Forexample, the elongated window 1560 can be configured to allow a user toview a paint liner of the paint cup assembly 1540. Accordingly, the usercan easily determine the level of paint in the paint cup assembly 1540while the paint cup assembly 1540 is being filled with paint.

In a particular aspect, at least a portion of a slot formed in anextended ring of the paint cup assembly 1540, e.g., the slot 320illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, can be substantially aligned with theelongated window 1560 when the paint cup assembly 1540 is installed inthe paint cup filling station 1500.

As further illustrated in FIG. 17, the paint cup filling station 1500can include a group of indicia 1562 adjacent to each elongated window1560. The indicia 1562 can be used to indicate a volume amount of paint,or fluid, within the paint cup assembly 1540. The indicia 1562 on thepaint cup filling station 1500 can be keyed to indicia on the paintliner of the paint cup assembly 1540.

In a particular aspect, the elongated window 1560 can have a windowheight, H_(W), measured from a top of the window 1560 to a bottom of thewindow 1560 along the center axis of the window 1560. A paint liner,e.g., the paint liner 202 depicted in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, can have paintliner height, H_(PL), measured from the top of a paint liner 202 to abottom of the paint liner 202 along a center axis of the paint liner202. Further, in a particular aspect, H_(W) can be at least 95% H_(PL).For example, H_(W) can be at least 100% H_(PL), such as at least 105%H_(PL), or at least 110% H_(PL). In another aspect, H_(W) can be lessthan or equal to 150% H_(PL), such as less than or equal to 125% H_(PL),or less than or equal to 115% H_(PL). Moreover, H_(W) can be within arange between and including any of the percentage of H_(PL) valuesdescribed herein.

In another aspect, the elongated window 1560 can have a window width,W_(W), measured from a left side of the window 1560 to a right side ofthe window 1560. The slot in the extended ring of the paint cup assembly1540 can include a slot width, W_(S), measured from a left side of theslot to a right side of the slot. In this aspect, W_(W) can be at least95% W_(S). For example, W_(W) can be at least 100% W_(S), such as atleast 105% W_(S), or at least 110% W_(S). In another aspect, W_(W) canbe less than or equal to 150% W_(S), such as less than or equal to 125%W_(S), or less than or equal to 115% W_(S). Moreover, W_(W) can bewithin a range between and including any of the percentage of W_(S)values described herein.

In another aspect, the paint liner of the paint cup assembly 1540 canhave an outer diameter, OD, measured at the outer perimeter of the rimof the paint liner. In this aspect, W_(W) can be at least 5% OD. Forexample, W_(W) can be at least 6% OD, such as at least 7% OD, at least8% OD, at least 9% OD, or at least 10% OD. In another aspect, W_(W) canbe less than or equal to 25% OD, such as less than or equal to 20% OD,or less than or equal to 15% OD. Moreover, W_(W) can be within a rangebetween and including any of the percentage of OD values describedherein.

In a particular aspect, one or more of the paint cup assembly holes1530, 1532 formed in the first paint cup tray 1502 and the second paintcup tray 1504 can be configured to receive a paint cup assembly having athree ounce (3 oz.) capacity. In another aspect, one or more of thepaint cup assembly holes 1530, 1532 formed in the first paint cup tray1502 and the second paint cup tray 1504 can be configured to receive apaint cup assembly having a five ounce (5 oz.) capacity.

In still another aspect, one or more of the paint cup assembly holes1530, 1532 formed in the first paint cup tray 1502 and the second paintcup tray 1504 can be configured to receive a paint cup assembly havingan eight ounce (8 oz.) capacity. In yet another aspect, one or more ofthe paint cup assembly holes 1530, 1532 formed in the first paint cuptray 1502 and the second paint cup tray 1504 can be configured toreceive a paint cup assembly having a twenty-five ounce (25 oz.)capacity. In another aspect, one or more of the paint cup assembly holes1530, 1532 formed in the first paint cup tray 1502 and the second paintcup tray 1504 can be configured to receive a paint cup assembly having athirty-two ounce (32 oz.) capacity.

In another aspect, one or more of the paint cup assembly holes 1530,1532 formed in the first paint cup tray 1502 and the second paint cuptray 1504 can be configured to receive a paint cup assembly having aninety milliliter (90 ml) capacity. In yet still another aspect, one ormore of the paint cup assembly holes 1530, 1532 formed in the firstpaint cup tray 1502 and the second paint cup tray 1504 can be configuredto receive a paint cup assembly having a one hundred fifty milliliter(150 ml) capacity.

In yet another aspect, one or more of the paint cup assembly holes 1530,1532 formed in the first paint cup tray 1502 and the second paint cuptray 1504 can be configured to receive a paint cup assembly having a twohundred fifty milliliter (250 ml) capacity. In another aspect, one ormore of the paint cup assembly holes 1530, 1532 formed in the firstpaint cup tray 1502 and the second paint cup tray 1504 can be configuredto receive a paint cup assembly having a seven hundred fifty milliliter(750 ml) capacity. In yet another aspect, one or more of the paint cupassembly holes 1530, 1532 formed in the first paint cup tray 1502 andthe second paint cup tray 1504 can be configured to receive a paint cupassembly having a nine hundred fifty milliliter (950 ml) capacity. Thecapacity of the paint cup assembly can be within a range between andincluding any of the capacity values described above.

It can be appreciated that the first paint cup tray 1502 can include anarray of similarly sized paint cup assembly holes 1530 and the secondpaint cup tray 1502 can include an array of similarly sized paint cupassembly holes 1532. The paint cup assembly holes 1530 in the firstpaint cup tray 1502 can be different in size from the paint cup assemblyholes 1532 in the second paint cup tray 1504. As such, the paint cupassembly filling station 1500 can be oriented as shown to receive paintcup assemblies having a particular size or the paint cup assemblyfilling station 1500 can be inverted to receive paint cup assemblieshaving a different size, e.g., capacity.

Also, it can be appreciated that the first paint cup tray 1502, thesecond paint cup tray 1504, or a combination thereof can include paintcup assembly holes 1532 of varying sizes.

In a particular aspect, the paint cup trays 1502, 1504 are constructedfrom acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic. Moreover, thehousing 1506 can be constructed from high density polyethylene (HDPE).

Referring now to FIG. 20 and FIG. 21, a paint cup assembly support standis illustrated and is generally designated 2000. As shown, the paint cupassembly support stand 2000 can include a base 2002. Further, one ormore support arms 2004 can extend from the base 2002. In a particularaspect, the support arms 2004 can extend in a direction that issubstantially perpendicular to the base 2002. Further, at least onepaint cup assembly support ring 2006 can extend from each support arm2004. Specifically, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006 can beparallel to the base 2002.

As shown in FIG. 20 and FIG. 21, a support frame 2008 can extend fromeach support arm 2004 to the paint cup assembly support ring 2006 andthe base of the paint cup assembly support stand 2000. The supportframes 2008 can provide additional structural support for the weight ofa paint cup assembly (not shown) inserted into the paint cup assemblysupport rings 2006.

In a particular aspect, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006 can beconfigured to receive a paint cup assembly having a three ounce (3 oz.)capacity. In another aspect, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006can be configured to receive a paint cup assembly having a five ounce (5oz.) capacity.

In still another aspect, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006 canbe configured to receive a paint cup assembly having an eight ounce (8oz.) capacity. In yet another aspect, each paint cup assembly supportring 2006 can be configured to receive a paint cup assembly having atwenty-five ounce (25 oz.) capacity. In another aspect, each paint cupassembly support ring 2006 can be configured to receive a paint cupassembly having a thirty-two ounce (32 oz.) capacity.

In another aspect, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006 can beconfigured to receive a paint cup assembly having a ninety milliliter(90 ml) capacity. In yet still another aspect, each paint cup assemblysupport ring 2006 can be configured to receive a paint cup assemblyhaving a one hundred fifty milliliter (150 ml) capacity.

In yet another aspect, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006 can beconfigured to receive a paint cup assembly having a two hundred fiftymilliliter (250 ml) capacity. In another aspect, each paint cup assemblysupport ring 2006 can be configured to receive a paint cup assemblyhaving a seven hundred fifty milliliter (750 ml) capacity. In yetanother aspect, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006 can beconfigured to receive a paint cup assembly having a nine hundred fiftymilliliter (950 ml) capacity.

FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 indicate that in an exemplary embodiment, the paintcup assembly support stand 2000 can include three support arms 2004extending from the base 2002 and each support arm 2004 can include asingle paint cup assembly support ring 2006. It can be appreciated thatthe paint cup assembly support stand 2000 can include any number ofsupport arms 2004 and any number of paint cup assembly support rings2006. For example, in another aspect, the paint cup assembly supportstand 2000 can include a single support arm 2004 having multiple paintcup assembly support rings 2006 extending therefrom, e.g., radially.Further, each paint cup assembly support ring 2006 can be similarlysized to receive paint cup assemblies having similar capacities, asdescribed herein. Alternatively, the paint cup assembly support stand2000 can include multiple paint cup assembly support rings 2006 havingvarious sizes and the paint cup assembly support stand 2000 can receiveand support paint cup assemblies having varying capacities.

With the configuration described herein, the paint cup assembly providesa paint cup assembly that is substantially leak-proof regardless of theorientation of the paint cup assembly. Further, the paint cup assemblycan be connected to a paint spray gun while the paint spray gun is in anupright position typically used while expelling paint from the paintspray gun. The valve maintains paint within the paint cup assembly untilthe paint cup assembly is engaged with the paint spray gun and theadapter opens the valve. Further, when the paint cup assembly isdisengaged with the paint spray gun, the valve returns to a closedposition and seals the outlet of the paint cup assembly. The paint cupassembly can be stored for later use and any remaining paint can stayfresh and usable for an extended period of time. In a particular aspect,the paint spray gun can incorporate one or more of the features of theadapter and in such an aspect, the paint cup assembly can be directlyengaged with the paint spray gun without using the adapter. Accordingly,a post within the paint spray gun can be configured to open the valvewhen the paint cup assembly is directly engaged with the paint spraygun.

Note that not all of the activities described above in the generaldescription or the examples are required, that a portion of a specificactivity may not be required, and that one or more further activitiescan be performed in addition to those described. Still further, theorder in which activities are listed is not necessarily the order inwhich they are performed.

Certain features that are, for clarity, described herein in the contextof separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a singleembodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity,described in the context of a single embodiment, can also be providedseparately or in any subcombination. Further, reference to values statedin ranges includes each and every value within that range.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have beendescribed above with regard to specific embodiments. However, thebenefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that cancause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become morepronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essentialfeature of any or all the claims.

The specification and illustrations of the embodiments described hereinare intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of thevarious embodiments. The specification and illustrations are notintended to serve as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of allof the elements and features of apparatus and systems that use thestructures or methods described herein. Separate embodiments can also beprovided in combination in a single embodiment, and conversely, variousfeatures that are, for brevity, described in the context of a singleembodiment, can also be provided separately or in any subcombination.Further, reference to values stated in ranges includes each and everyvalue within that range. Many other embodiments can be apparent toskilled artisans only after reading this specification. Otherembodiments can be used and derived from the disclosure, such that astructural substitution, logical substitution, or another change can bemade without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly,the disclosure is to be regarded as illustrative rather thanrestrictive.

1. A paint cup assembly for a paint sprayer, comprising: a paintreservoir; a cap configured to engage the paint reservoir, the caphaving an outlet; and a valve assembly disposed within the cap, whereinthe valve assembly is configured to be operable from a closedconfiguration in which fluid flow through the outlet is prevented to anopen configuration in which fluid flow through the outlet is permittedupon engagement with a paint sprayer.
 2. The paint cup assembly of claim1, wherein the open configuration is achieved automatically duringengagement.
 3. The paint cup assembly of claim 2, wherein engagement isachieved by reducing a distance between the paint cup assembly and thepaint sprayer.
 4. (canceled)
 5. The paint cup assembly of claim 1,wherein engagement comprises a threaded engagement.
 6. The paint cupassembly of claim 1, further comprising: a valve retainer installedwithin the cap, wherein the valve retainer is configured to retain thevalve assembly within the cap.
 7. The paint cup assembly of claim 6,wherein the valve assembly is installed between the outlet and the valveretainer.
 8. The paint cup assembly of claim 7, wherein the valveassembly comprises a spring loaded valve assembly.
 9. The paint cupassembly of claim 8, wherein the spring loaded valve assembly comprises:a plunger having a head and a shaft, wherein the head of the plunger isconfigured to engage a valve seat formed in the outlet.
 10. The paintcup assembly of claim 9, wherein the spring loaded valve assemblyfurther comprises: a spring disposed around the shaft of the plunger,wherein the spring is installed in compression between the head of theplunger and the valve retainer and wherein the spring provides a biasingforce to move the valve assembly to the closed configuration as thepaint cup assembly is disengaged with a paint sprayer. 11.-13.(canceled)
 14. The paint cup assembly of claim 6, wherein the valveretainer comprises a generally flat disk.
 15. The paint cup assembly ofclaim 14, wherein the valve retainer is formed with one or more windows,wherein each of the one or more windows comprises a filter materialdisposed therein.
 16. The paint cup assembly of claim 1, furthercomprising: an adapter, wherein the adapter is configured to beinstalled within a spray gun and configured to receive the paint cupassembly and wherein the adapter is configured to open the valveassembly as the paint cup assembly is engaged with the adapter.
 17. Thepaint cup assembly of claim 16, wherein the adapter comprises: anadapter body; an outer wall; and an internal bore formed along thelength of the adapter body and circumscribed by the outer wall.
 18. Thepaint cup assembly of claim 17, wherein the adapter further comprises: avalve actuator disposed within the internal bore.
 19. The paint cupassembly of claim 18, wherein the valve actuator comprises a post andwherein the post is configured to open the valve assembly as the outletof the paint cup assembly is inserted into the adapter.
 20. The paintcup assembly of claim 1, wherein the paint reservoir is a collapsible,disposable paint liner. 21.-25. (canceled)
 26. An adapter for a paintsprayer, the adapter comprising: an adapter body formed with an internalbore along the length of the adapter body; and a valve actuator disposedwithin the internal bore, wherein the valve actuator is configured toopen a valve assembly of a paint cup assembly as the paint cup assemblyis engaged with the adapter.
 27. The adapter of claim 26, wherein theinternal bore comprises: a first bore portion extending from theproximal end of the adapter body toward the distal end of the adapterbody; a second bore portion extending from the first bore portion towardthe distal end of the adapter body; and a third bore portion extendingfrom the second bore portion and terminating at the distal end of theadapter body.
 28. The adapter of claim 27, wherein the valve actuatorcomprises: a base; and a post extending from the base, wherein the baseis sized and shaped to fit into the second bore portion and wherein thepost extends into the first bore portion.
 29. A paint cup assembly for apaint sprayer, comprising: a paint reservoir; a cap configured to engagethe paint reservoir, the cap having an outlet; a valve retainerdistanced from the outlet; and a valve assembly disposed within the capbetween the outlet and the valve retainer, wherein the valve assembly isconfigured to be operable from a closed configuration in which fluidflow through the outlet is prevented to an open configuration in whichfluid flow through the outlet is permitted upon engagement with a paintsprayer.